A man diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour has been offered a 'one-time' permanent home by Thurrock Council – but it's not what he expected. The 38-year-old, who sought homelessness support in March 2025 after relocating to Essex, was initially placed in a house in multiple occupation before receiving the offer for a 15th-floor flat in Brisbane House, an Essex tower block constructed in the 1970s.
During a viewing of the property, the man claims the building's lift temporarily malfunctioned, leaving him distressed and contemplating the arduous prospect of using the stairs. He stated this incident underscored his fears about needing urgent medical assistance from the 15th floor. 'It's just not safe,' he said.
Thurrock Council maintains that the property was offered after careful consideration of his housing circumstances and with medical advice to support its suitability. However, a lift breakdown at Brisbane House has been disputed by the man – with the council stating there was no record of such an incident during the viewing, but acknowledging that a lift briefly stopped on the 8th floor before resuming travel once the ground floor button was pressed again.
The council's medical advice confirmed accommodation above the second floor was suitable for the man, provided there was reliable lift access. However, this case raises questions about the adequacy of housing provisions for individuals with significant health needs – and whether current systems are equipped to address their specific vulnerabilities.